"And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God: and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea, Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads." -Revelation 7:2-3

A Bible based media ministry dedicated to end time presentations, studies, health, news, & information because Jesus is coming soon!

b.“God will arouse His people; if other means fail, heresies will come in among them, which will sift them, separating the chaff from the wheat. The Lord calls upon all who believe His word to awake out of sleep. Precious light has come, appropriate for this time. It is Bible truth, showing the perils that are right upon us. This light should lead us to a diligent study of the Scriptures and a most critical examination of the positions which we hold. God would have all the bearings and positions of truth thoroughly and perseveringly searched, with prayer and fasting. Believers are not to rest in suppositions and ill-defined ideas of what constitutes truth. Their faith must be firmly founded upon the word of God so thatwhenthe testing time shall comeand they are brought before councils to answer for their faith they may be able to give a reason for the hope that is in them, with meekness and fear.” {5T 707.3}

c.“Some he deceives in one way, and some in another. He has different delusions prepared to affect different minds. Some look with horror upon one deception, while they readily receive another. Satan deceives some with Spiritualism. He also comes as an angel of light and spreads his influence over the land by means offalse reformations. The churches are elated, and consider that God is working marvelously for them, when it is the work of another spirit. The excitement will die away and leave the world and the church in a worse condition than before.” {EW 260.1}

d.False Revivals - “I saw that God has honest children among the nominal Adventistsandthe fallen churches, and before the plagues shall be poured out, ministers and people will be called out from these churchesand will gladly receive the truth. Satan knows this; and before the loud cry of the third angel is given, he raises an excitement in these religious bodies, that those who have rejected the truth may think that God is with them. He hopes to deceive the honestand lead them to think that God is still working for the churches. But the light will shine, and all who are honest will leave the fallen churches, and take their stand with the remnant.” {EW 261.1} (also GC 464.1)

1.“Nominal” Definition 3a - “existing or being something in name or form only” –Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary

2.“Those who have had opportunities to hear and receive of the truth and who have united with theSeventh-day Adventist church, calling themselves the commandment-keeping people of God, and yet possess no more vitality and consecration to God than do the nominal churches, will receive the plagues of God just as verily as the churches who oppose the law of God.” --19MR 176 (1898). {LDE 172.2}

e.“Before the final visitation of God's judgments upon the earth there will be among the people of the Lord such a revival of primitive godliness as has not been witnessed since apostolic times. . . . The enemy of souls desires to hinder this work, and before the time for such a movement shall come, he will endeavor to prevent it by introducing a counterfeit. In those churches (nominal Adventists & the fallen churches)(see: EW 261.1) which he can bring under his deceptive power, he will make it appear that God's special blessing is poured out; there will be manifest what is thought to be great religious interest. . . .” {GC 464.1} {LDE 158.2} (next paragraph follows in both ref’s)

f.“There is an emotional excitement, a mingling of the true with the false, that is well adapted to mislead. Yet none need be deceived. In the light of God's Word it is not difficult to determine the nature of these movements. Wherever men neglect the testimony of the Bible, turning away from those plain, soul-testing truths which require self-denial and renunciation of the world, there we may be sure that God's blessing is not bestowed.” –{GC 464.2} {LDE 158.3}

g.SDA Bible Commentary Vol. 7 – Revelation 18 “Falsehoods will be urged upon the attention of God's people, but the truth is to stand clothed in its beautiful, pure garments. The Word, precious in its holy, uplifting influence, is not to be degraded to a level with common, ordinary matters. It is always to remain uncontaminated by the fallacies by which Satan seeks to deceive, if possible, the very elect.” {7BC 984.2}

h."Satan's purpose is, through his devices, to make of none effect the testimonies of the Spirit of God. If he can lead the minds of the people of God to see things in a perverted light, they will lose confidence in the messages God sends through His servants; then he can the more readily deceive, and not be detected." {12MR 201.1}

1.If the intimation that the latter rain could fall (before National Sunday Law enforcement, etc) in response to “Operation Global Rain” is believed and accepted by many, and this does not happen (it won't), it could very easily cause them to lose confidence in the testimonies, and why should this surprise us? This is exactly "Satan's purpose", "to make of none effect the testimonies of the Spirit of God." The testimonies tell us the Latter Rain is not yet, and the scriptures tell us to be patient and wait for it. In this movement so far all I've honestly seen is impatience over the latter rain.

A."Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain. You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand." -James 5:7,8

B.Do you notice how patience is really a theme here? Patience, or waiting is mentioned four times. "The Lord does not repeat things that are of no great consequence." -Ms 107, 1897

2.What would be the ramifications for those who don't receive this counterfeit latter rain?

A.This would create two classes, those "with the spirit" and those "without."

a.Those "with the spirit" could easily begin to deride those "without" and begin to intimate that those "without the spirit" were to be the ones lost, & would be shaken out, etc.

b.This could very easily set the stage for persecution in the church.

B.This would result in God's true children being made to feel they had been "passed by" and had missed the latter rain.

a.This could result in a host of other problems for God's true children:

i. Feelings of disappointment, depression, despondency, worthlessness, inadequacy, etc. (Just as Satan would have them feel.)

ii.This could easily result in some losing their faith due to the feeling it was "too late" for them.

C.God's work would be hindered due to divisions in the church.

a.Remember from above, "The enemy of souls desires to hinder the work." This seems to be his plan to do exactly so, and he MUST do this BEFORE the true revival! And from what I see, it's prophesied in a concrete way, without condition. It will happen and it seems that only the work of "a few" with God's help can limit the extent of this damage!

i.A warning against such attempts at “control” over the events and timing of the latter rain.

1.“There will be thoseamong uswho will always want tocontrolthe work of God, to dictate even whatmovementsshall be made when the work goes forward under the direction ofthe angel who joins the third angelin the message to be given to the world. God will use ways and means by which it will be seen that He is taking the reinsin His own hands. The workers will be surprised by the simple means that He will use to bring about and perfect His work of righteousness.--Testimonies to Ministers, p. 300. (1885) {Ev 118.1}

A.Might some of those “among us” also try “to dictate” or intimate even when such “movements shall be made” concerning the work of the fourth angel?

5.“Causes for Delay in Outpouring of Latter Rain.”

a.The Counterfeit – “Playing with Fire”

1.“Then Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, each took his censer and put fire in it, put incense on it, and offered profane fire before the LORD, which He had not commanded them. So fire went out from the LORD and devoured them, and they died before the LORD.” –Leviticus 10:1,2

A.Is the issue of what you believe about the Latter Rain, represented by a Holy Fire, a salvation issue? Are some playing with “profane” fire before the Lord, just like Nadab and Abihu by taking things into their own hands, “before the time?” If some are saying that the Latter Rain is beginning to fall, when in reality it might be the work of another spirit, are we in danger of our salvation?

2.“The natural heart is not to bring its own tainted, corrupting principles into the work of God. There must be no concealing of the principles of our faith. The third angel's message is to be sounded by God's people. It is to swell to theloud cry. The Lord has a time appointed when He will bind off the work; but when is that time?--when the truth to be proclaimed for these last days shall go forth as a witness to all nations, then shall the end come. If the power of Satan can come into the very temple of God, and manipulate things as he pleases, the time of preparation will be prolonged.” {9MR 212.1}

When Will the Latter Rain be Poured Out? / When does the fourth angel join the third?

A Caution Against Time-Setting Expressions. - “The times and seasons God has put in His own power. And why has not God given us this knowledge?-- Because we would not make a right use of it if He did. A condition of things would result from this knowledge among our people that would greatly retard the work of God in preparing a people to stand in the great day that is to come. We are not to be engrossed with speculations in regard to the times and the seasons which God has not revealed. Jesus has told His disciples to "watch," but not for definite time. His followers are to be in the position of those who are listening for the orders of their Captain; they are to watch, wait, pray, and work, as they approach the time for the coming of the Lord; but no one will be able to predict just when that time will come; for "of that day and hour knoweth no man." You will not be able to say that He will come in one, two, or five years, neither are you to put off His coming by stating that it may not be for ten or twenty years. . . . We are not to know the definite time either for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit or for the coming of Christ. … Why has not God given us this knowledge?--Because we would not make a right use of it if He did. A condition of things would result from this knowledge among our people that would greatly retard the work of God in preparing a people to stand in the great day that is to come. We are not to live upon time excitement. . . .” --Review and Herald, March 22, 1892. {Ev 221.1} {LDE 33.1}

The Chronology

1. Chronology – definition at Merriam Webster’s – 3 an arrangement (as of events) in order of occurrence

After the way is prepared

1.“Whenthe way is preparedfor the Spirit of God, the blessing will come. Satan can no more hinder a shower of blessing from descending upon God's people than he can close the windows of heaven that rain cannot come upon the earth.” -1SM 124 (1887). {LDE 188.2}

After an early rain/former rain experience

1.“Be glad then, you children of Zion, and rejoice in the LORD your God; For He has given you the former rain faithfully, and He will cause the rain to come down for you— the former rain, and the latter rain in the first month.” –Joel 2:23

2.“The latter rain, ripening earth's harvest, represents the spiritual grace that prepares the church for the coming of the Son of man. But unlessthe former rain has fallen, there will be no life; the green blade will not spring up. Unlessthe early showers have done their work, the latter rain can bring no seed to perfection.” -TM 506 (1897). {LDE 183.3}

3.“The outpouring of the Spirit in the days of the apostles wasthe beginningof the early, or former, rain, and glorious was the result. To the end of time the presence of the Spirit is to abide with the true church.” -AA 54, 55 (1911). {LDE 184.4}

4.“The convocations of the church, as in camp meetings, the assemblies of the home church, and all occasions where there is personal labor for souls, are God's appointed opportunities for giving the early and the latter rain.” {TM 508.1}

A.We must realize that the early rain being referred to here is applied to today, an obvious reason for this was the early disciples didn’t have “camp meeting.” This quote refers to an early outpouring of God’s spirit just before the final events to prepare the 144,000 for their mission. (See the study on the 144,000 – “The Awakening that will Surprise Many.”)

B.The Early Rain results in the raising up and fitting of the 144,000.

a.“He willraise upfrom among the common people men and women to do His work, even as of old He called fishermen to be His disciples. There will soon be an awakening that will surprise many. Those who do not realize the necessity of what is to be done will be passed by, and the heavenly messengers will work with those who are called the common people, fitting themto carry the truth to many places.” -15MR 312 (1905). {LDE 204.2}

5.“If we do not place ourselves in an attitude to receiveboththe formerandthe latter rain, we shall lose our souls, and the responsibility will lie at our own door.” {TM 507.2}

God’s people must be tested first. While they will be brought to many tests, the greatest test is that of their loyalty, and this is the test over the Sabbath.

1.“Those who come up toevery point, andstand every test, andovercome, be the price what it may, have heeded the counsel of the True Witness, and they will be fitted by the latter rain for translation.” {2SG 225.1}

2.Observance of Sabbath is the Test - “None are condemned until they have had the light and have seen the obligation of the fourth commandment. But whenthe decree shall go forthenforcing the counterfeit sabbath, andthe loud cryof the third angel shall warn men against the worship of the beast and his image, the line will be clearly drawn between the false and the true. Then those who still continue in transgression will receive the mark of the beast.” --Ev 234, 235 (1899). {LDE 225.4}

A.Notice the counterfeit sabbath (beginning with National Sunday Laws) starts before the loud cry because the loud cry is against worship of the beast and His image. You cannot have a loud cry without National Sunday Laws and the latter rain first. Both are absolute requirements for the loud cry. See also: EW 86 (1854) {LDE 186.4}, (EW 271.2)

3.“The Sabbath will be the great test of loyalty; for it is the point of truth especially controverted. When the final test shall be brought to bear upon men, then the line of distinction will be drawn between those who serve God and those who serve him not. While the observance of the false Sabbath in compliance with the law of the State, contrary to the fourth commandment, will be an avowal of allegiance to a power that is in opposition to God, the keeping of the true Sabbath, in obedience to God's law, is an evidence of loyalty to the Creator. While one class, by accepting the sign of submission to earthly powers, receive the mark of the beast, the other, choosing the token of allegiance to divine authority, receive the seal of God.” {GC88 605.2}

After National Sunday Law enforcement

1.“It is time for thee, LORD, to work: for they have made void thy law.” –Psalm 119:126

2.“When the law of God has been made void, andapostasy becomes anational sin, the Lord will work in behalf of his people. Their extremity will be his opportunity. He will manifest his power in behalf of his church.” {RH, December 24, 1889 par. 5}(LDE 133.3)

A.“Whenour nation, in its legislative councils, shall enact laws to bind the consciences of men in regard to their religious privileges, enforcing Sunday observance, and bringing oppressive power to bear against those who keep the seventh-day Sabbath, the law of God will, to all intents and purposes, be made void in our land, and national apostasy will be followed by national ruin.” -7BC 977 (1888). {LDE 133.5}

3.“When Sunday observance shall be enforced by law, andthe world shall beenlightenedconcerning the obligation of the true Sabbath, then whoever shall transgress the command of God to obey a precept which has no higher authority than that of Rome, will thereby honor popery above God. He is paying homage to Rome, and to the power which enforces the institution ordained by Rome. He is worshiping the beast and his image.” {LDE 226.1} {GC 449.1} (The loud cry is against "worship of the beast and his image." (Ev 234, 235 1899))

4.“But when the decree shall go forthenforcing the counterfeit Sabbath, and whenthe loud cryof the third angel shall warn men against the worship of the beast and his image, the line will be clearly drawn between the false and the true. Then those who still continue in transgression will receive the mark of the beast in their foreheads or in their hands.” {BTS, February 1, 1913 par. 5} & {ST, November 8, 1899 par. 2}

5.“The great issueso near at hand [enforcement of Sunday laws] will weed out those whom God has not appointedand He will have a pure, true, sanctified ministryprepared for the latter rain.” --3SM 385 (1886). {LDE 179.2}

6. “Soon the last test is to come to all inhabitants of the earth. At that time prompt decisions will be made. Those who have been convicted under the presentation of the Word will range themselves under the bloodstained banner of Prince Emmanuel.”--9T 149 (1909). {LDE 213.1}(Chapter 14 – The Loud Cry)

7.“Heretofore those who presented the truths of the third angel's message have often been regarded as mere alarmists. Their predictions that religious intolerance would gain control in the United States, that church and state would unite to persecute those who keep the commandments of God, have been pronounced groundless and absurd. It has been confidently declared that this land could never become other than what it has been--the defender of religious freedom. But as the question of enforcing Sunday observance iswidely agitated, the event so long doubted and disbelieved isseen to be approaching, and the third message will produce an effect which it could not have had before.” {GC 605.3}

A.And of course as this event comes to pass this will develop into the loud cry as the United States leads the way and all the world wanders after.

8.“Thus the message of the third angel will be proclaimed. As the time comes for itto be given with greatest power, the Lord will work through humble instruments, leading the minds of those who consecrate themselves to His service. The laborers will be qualified rather by the unction of His Spirit than by the training of literary institutions. Men of faith and prayer will be constrained to go forth with holy zeal, declaring the words which God gives them. The sins of Babylon will be laid open. The fearful results ofenforcing the observances of the church by civil authority, the inroads of spiritualism, the stealthy but rapid progress of the papal power--all will be unmasked. By these solemn warnings the people will be stirred. . .” {GC 606.2} {FLB 330.2}

A.It is clearly stated here that there will be church-state enforcement prior to the loud cry “to be given with greatest power” that lays open the sins of Babylon.

9.“The time is not far distant when the test will come to every soul. The mark of the beast will be urged upon us. Those who have step by step yielded to worldly demands and conformed to worldly customs will not find it a hard matter to yield to the powers that be, rather than subject themselves to derision, insult, threatened imprisonment, and death. The contest is between the commandments of God and the commandments of men. In this timethe gold will be separated from the dross in the church. True godlinesswill be clearly distinguished from the appearance and tinsel of it. Many a star that we have admired for its brilliancy will then go out in darkness. Chaff like a cloud will be borne away on the wind, even from places where we see only floors of rich wheat. All who assume the ornaments of the sanctuary, but are not clothed with Christ's righteousness, will appear in the shame of their own nakedness.” {5T 81.1}{Mar 200.3}

10.“In revelation 14 John beholds another scene. He sees a people whose fidelity and loyalty to the laws of God's kingdom, grow with theemergency. The contempt placed upon the law of God only makes them reveal more decidedly their love for that law. It increases with the contempt that is placed upon it.” (MS 163, 1897). {7BC 981.9}

11.“Whenthe law of God ismost deridedand brought into themost contempt, thenit is time for every true follower of Christ, for those whose hearts have been given to God, and who are fixed to obey God, to stand unflinchingly for the faith once delivered to the saints. "Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not." It is timeto fight whenchampions are most needed.1” (RH June 8, 1897). {7BC 981.12}

A.See (MS 175, 1899). {7BC 983.2} below: “The armies of the living God will take the field.”

During the “Small time of Trouble” (Sunday Laws begin the Small Time of Trouble)

1.“The commencement of that time of trouble," here mentioned does not refer to the time when the plagues shall begin to be poured out, but toa short periodjust beforethey are poured out, while Christ is in the sanctuary. At that time, while the work of salvation is closing, trouble will be coming on the earth, and the nations will be angry, yet held in check so as not to prevent the work of the third angel. At that time the "latter rain," or refreshing from the presence of the Lord, will come, to give power to the loud voice of the third angel, andprepare the saints to stand in the period when the seven last plagues shall be poured out.” {EW 85.3}

2.“The unbelieving world will soon have something to think of besides their dress and appearance; and as their minds are torn from these things bydistress and perplexity, they will have nothing to turn to. They are not prisoners of hope, and therefore do not turn to the Stronghold. Their hearts will fail them for repining and fear. They have not made God their refuge, and He will not be their consolation then, but will laugh at their calamity, and mock when their fear cometh. They have despised and trampled upon the truths of God's word. They have indulged in extravagant dress, and have spent their lives in hilarity and glee. They have sown to the wind; they must reap the whirlwind. In the timeof distress and perplexity of nationsthere will be many who have not given themselves wholly to the corrupting influences of the world and the service of Satan, who will humble themselvesbefore Godand turn to Him with their whole heart and find acceptance and pardon.” {1T 268.3}

A.There will be (at minimum) a “second outpouring” of the Latter Rain to prepare the “gentiles” joining the church at the 11th hour, for the Great Time of Trouble that will bejust ahead of them. This is described in “type” in the book of Acts. They must be prepared by God for this time or they would not be able to stand without an intercessor during the plagues.

3.“ButProvidencehas a part to act in the battle of Armageddon. When the earth is lighted with the glory of the angel of Revelation eighteen, the religious elements, good and evil, will awake from slumber, andthe armies of the living God will take the field.” (MS 175, 1899). {7BC 983.2}

A.“All the intelligences of heaven are in this army. And more than angels are in the ranks. The Holy Spirit, the representative of the Captain of the Lord's host, comes down to direct the battle. Our infirmities may be many, our sins and mistakes grievous; but the grace of God is for all who seek it with contrition. The power of Omnipotence is enlisted in behalf of those who trust in God." {DA 352.2}

After Satan begins to make appearances as Christ

1.SDA Bible Commentary Vol. 7 – Revelation 18:1 - Message Prepares for Translation.-- “Amid the confusing cries, "Lo, here is Christ!Lo, there is Christ!" will be borne a special testimony, a special message of truth appropriate for this time, which message is to be received, believed, and acted upon.” {7BC 984.2}

After the Churches become active Laborers in Christ’s service

1.“Whenthe churches become living, working churches, the Holy Spirit will be given in answer to their sincere request. . . . Thenthe windows of heaven will be open for the showers of the latter rain.” --RH Feb. 25, 1890. {LDE 193.2}

2.“The great outpouring of the Spirit of God, which lightens the whole earth with His glory, will not come until we have an enlightened people, that know by experience what it means to be laborers together with God. Whenwe have entire, wholehearted consecration to the service of Christ, God will recognize the fact by an outpouring of His Spirit without measure; but this will not be while the largest portion of the church are not laborers together with God.” -ChS 253 (1896). {LDE 193.3}

3.“The God-fearing, commandment-keeping people should be diligent, notonlyin prayer, but in action; and this will bring the truth before those who have never heard it.” -{RH, December 24, 1889 par. 4}

After “the storm of persecution really breaks upon us”

1.“Whenthe storm of persecution really breaks upon us, . . . thenwill the message of the third angel swell to a loud cry, and the whole earth will be lightened with the glory of the Lord.” --6T 401 (1900). {LDE 208.2}

2.Persecution Leads to Unity Among God's People – “Whenthe storm of persecution really breaks upon us, the true sheep will hear the true Shepherd's voice. Self-denying efforts will be put forth to save the lost, and many who have strayed from the fold will come back to follow the great Shepherd. The people of God will draw together and present to the enemy a united front. In view of the common peril strife for supremacy will cease, there will be no disputing as to who shall be accounted greatest.” -6T 401 (1900). {LDE 152.2}

3.“As trials thicken around us, both separation and unity will be seen in our ranks. Some who are now ready to take up weapons of warfare will in times of real peril make it manifest that they have not built upon the solid rock; they will yield to temptation. Those who have had great light and precious privileges but have not improved them will, under one pretext or another, go out from us.” -6T 400 (1900). {LDE 175.2}

After the Shaking

1.God could not display His power in behalf of ancient Israel until they were purified. God will wait until His remnant church is purified before He will pour out the Latter Rain.

A.Israel was cleansed before they could stand before their enemies – “In the case of Achan's sin God said to Joshua: "Neither will I be with you any more, except ye destroy the accursed from among you." (Joshua 7:12) How does this instance compare with the course pursued by those who will not raise their voice against sin and wrong, but whose sympathies are ever found with those who trouble the camp of Israel with their sins? Said God to Joshua: "Thou canst not stand before thine enemies, untilye take away the accursed thing from among you." He pronounced the punishment which would follow the transgression of His covenant.” {3T 267.3}

B.“neither will I be with you any more, exceptyou destroy the accursed from among you” –Josh 7:12

C.“There is an accursed thing in your midst, O Israel: you cannot stand before your enemies, until you take away the accursed thing from among you.” Josh 7:13

2.“He will purify His churcheven as He purified the temple at the beginning and close of His ministry on earth. All that He brings upon the church in test and trial comes that His people may gain deeper piety and more strengthto carry the triumphs of the cross to all parts of the world.” -9T 228 (1909). {LDE 153.4}

A.The experience at the cross was literally an earth shaking event for the disciples, (not to mention the events leading up to the cross,) and Pentecost did not come until after this experience had weeded out those “whom God had not appointed” (Judas) out of their ranks. Which is right in line with 3SM 385 above. This experience was but a type of what will happen at the end of time. Will these prophecies be repeated?

B.“The prophecies which were fulfilled in the outpouring of the former rain at the opening of the gospelare againto be fulfilled in the latter rain at its close. Here are "the times of refreshing" to which the apostle Peter looked forward when he said: "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; and He shall send Jesus." Acts 3:19, 20. {GC 611.3}

3.“When the reproach of indolence and slothfulness shall have been wiped away from the church, the Spirit of the Lord will be graciously manifested. Divine power will be revealed. The church will see the providential working of the Lord of hosts.” -9T 46 (1909). {LDE 193.4}

4.“When the law of God ismade voidthe church will be sifted by fiery trials, and a larger proportion than we now anticipate will give heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils.” --2SM 368 (1891). {LDE 174.2}

a.“I saw some, with strong faith and agonizing cries, pleading with God. Their countenances were pale and marked with deep anxiety, expressive of their internal struggle. Firmnessandgreat earnestnesswas expressed in their countenances; large drops of perspiration fell from their foreheads.1 Now and then their faces would light up with the marks of God's approbation, and again the same solemn, earnest, anxious look would settle upon them.” {EW 269.1} (Early Writings – Spiritual Gifts Vol. 1 – The Shaking)

i.1 - Again from the shaking experience leading up to the cross.

1.“And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.” –Luke 22:44

B.Evil angels attempt to shut them off from Jesus

a.“Evil angels crowded around, pressing darkness upon them to shut out Jesus from their view, that their eyes might be drawn to the darkness that surrounded them, and thus they be led to distrust God and murmur against Him. Their only safety was in keeping their eyes directed upward. Angels of God had charge over His people, and as the poisonous atmosphere of evil angels was pressed around these anxious ones, the heavenly angels were continually wafting their wings over them to scatter the thick darkness.” {EW 269.2} (Early Writings – Spiritual Gifts Vol. 1 – The Shaking)

C.Encouragement from Jesus received at times

a.“As the praying ones continued theirearnest cries, at times a ray of light from Jesus came to them, to encourage their hearts and light up their countenances.”1 {EW 270.1} (Early Writings – Spiritual Gifts Vol. 1 – The Shaking)

i.1 – From Ellen White’s first vision – “If they kept their eyes fixed on Jesus, who was just before them, leading them to the city, they were safe. But soon some grew weary, and said the city was a great way off, and they expected to have entered it before. Then Jesus would encourage them by raising His glorious right arm, and from His arm came a light which waved over the Advent band, and they shouted, "Alleluia!" Others rashly denied the light behind themand said that it was not God that had led them out so far. The light behind them went out, leaving their feet in perfect darkness, and they stumbled and lost sight of the mark and of Jesus, and fell off the path down into the dark and wicked world below.” {EW 14.1}

D.Some do not participate in agonizing and pleading & are left in “perfect darkness”

a.“Some, I saw, did not participate in this work ofagonizingandpleading.1 They seemed indifferent and careless. They were not resisting the darkness around them, and it shut them in like a thick cloud. The angels of God left these and went to the aid of the earnest, praying ones.2I saw angels of God hasten to the assistance of all who were struggling with all their powerto resist the evil angels andtrying to help themselves by calling upon Godwith perseverance. But His angels left those who made no effort to help themselves, and I lost sight of them.2” {EW 270.1} (Early Writings – Spiritual Gifts Vol. 1 – The Shaking)

i.1 - This agonizing and pleading is not a one time event, nor a yearly event, but a daily continual struggle.

ii.2 – Probation has now been closed for this group! See section titled– “After the close of the Sealing Time for the Church” below

E.Guardian angels around the saints are now doubled & the saints are clothed in armor. (Sealed)

a.“Said the angel, "List ye!" Soon I heard a voice like many musical instruments all sounding inperfect strains, sweetandharmonious.1 It surpassed any music I hadever heard, seeming to be full ofmercy, compassion, andelevating, holy joy. It thrilled through my whole being. Said the angel, "Look ye!" My attention was then turned to the company I had seen, who were mightily shaken. I was shown those whom I had before seenweeping and praying in agony of spirit. The company of guardian angels around them had been doubled, and they were clothed with an armor from their head to their feet. They moved in exact order, like a company of soldiers.2Their countenances expressed thesevere conflictwhich they had endured, the agonizing strugglethey had passed through. Yet their features, marked withsevere internal anguish, now shone with the light and glory of heaven. They had obtained the victory, and it called forth from them the deepest gratitude and holy, sacred joy.” {EW 270.4} (Early Writings – Spiritual Gifts Vol. 1 – The Shaking)

i.1 - “Amidst the deepening shadows of earth's last great crisis, God's light will shine brightest, and the song of hope and trust will be heard in clearest and loftiest strains.” -Ed 166 (1903). {LDE 201.5}

ii.2 – “ButProvidencehas a part to act inthe battle of Armageddon. When the earth is lighted with the glory of the angel of Revelation eighteen, the religious elements, good and evil, will awake from slumber, and the armies of the living God will take the field.” (MS 175, 1899). {7BC 983.2}

F.New believers take the place of those shaken out.

a.“The numbers of this company had lessened. Some had beenshaken outand left by the way. The careless and indifferent, who did not join with those who prized victory and salvation enough to perseveringly plead and agonize for it, did not obtain it, and they were left behind in darkness, and their places were immediately filled by others taking hold of the truth and coming into the ranks. Evil angels still pressed around them, but could have no power over them.” {EW 271.1} (Early Writings – Spiritual Gifts Vol. 1 – The Shaking)

i.Why could the evil angels now have no power over them? The next paragraph from Ellen White explains!

G.The Latter Rain

a.“I heard thoseclothed with the armorspeak forth the truth withgreat power. It had effect. Many had been bound; some wives by their husbands, and some children by their parents. The honest who had been prevented from hearing the truth now eagerly laid hold upon it. All fear of their relatives was gone, and the truth alone was exalted to them. They had been hungering and thirsting for truth; it was dearer and more precious than life. I asked what had made this great change. An angel answered, "It is the latter rain, the refreshing from the presence of the Lord, the loud cry of the third angel." {EW 271.2} }(Early Writings – Spiritual Gifts Vol. 1 – The Shaking)

i.They had been both sealed in Christ which is represented by the armor, and they now speak the truth with great power, this power coming from the fourth angel joining the third. This IS the Latter Rain, but not until after the corporate shaking of God’s people. MAKE NO MISTAKE, THIS HAS NOT HAPPENED YET!All this and Universal Sunday Laws have not even happened yet!!!

After the close of the Sealing Time for the (remnant) Church (their decision on the Sabbath-Sunday issue determines if they receive the Seal of God or the Mark of the Beast) & Seal of God is received

1.“Not one of us will ever receive theseal of God while our characters have one spot or stain upon them. It is left with us to remedy the defects in our characters, to cleanse the soul temple of every defilement. Thenthe latter rain will fall upon us as the early rain fell upon the disciples on the Day of Pentecost.” {5T 214.2}{Mar 240.4}

A.“The broken ranks will be filled up by those represented by Christ as coming in at the eleventh hour. There are many with whom the Spirit of God is striving.The time of God's destructive judgments is the time of mercy for those who [now] have no opportunity to learn what is truth. Tenderly will the Lord look upon them. His heart of mercy is touched, His hand is still stretched out to save, while the door is closed to those who would not enter. Large numbers will be admitted who in these last days hear the truth for the first time.--Letter 103, 1903.” {LDE 182.2}

2.“The refreshing from the presence of the Lord will never come to hearts filled with impurity.” {RH, April 21, 1891 par. 11}

3.“Repent and be converted, that your sins may be blotted outwhenthe times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.” --The Review and Herald, March 29, 1892. {1SM 192.1}

4.See also {EW 270.1} above.

Finally, the way has been prepared, God’s people have been fitted and accepted an early rain experience, the Law of God has begun to be made void by the legislation and enforcement of National Sunday Laws, and Satan has done His best to overpower those of God’s people he has not been able to shake out. As God’s people see there is no way out, the lessons of complete reliance on God they have learned from their past experiences are now brought to memory. Now the time has fully come and God’s people see that they are poor, blind, weak, and naked, and they are not as prepared as they thought they were. They now see that there is no way out except by His divine power and leadership. It is now time for God to work. (Psalm 119:126)

1.“God has thrust His people into the gap, to make up the hedge, to raise up the foundation of many generations. The heavenly intelligences, angels that excel in strength, are waiting, obedient to His command, to unite with human agencies; and the Lord will interpose when matters have come to such a pass that none but a divine power can counteract the satanic agencies at work. WhenHis people shall be in the greatest danger, seemingly unable to stand against the power of Satan, Godwillwork in their behalf. Man's extremity is God's opportunity.” {2SM 373.1} {GCDB, April 13, 1891 par. 22}

Just before the final call (the loud cry) is given to come out of Babylon & the final harvest

1.“Notwithstanding the widespread declension of faith and piety, there are true followers of Christ in these churches. Before the final visitation of God's judgments upon the earth there will be among the people of the Lord such a revival of primitive godliness as has not been witnessed since apostolic times. The Spirit and power of God will be poured out upon His children. At that time many will separate themselves from those churches in which the love of this world has supplanted love for God and His word. Many, both of ministers and people, will gladly accept those great truths which God has caused to be proclaimedat this timeto prepare a people for the Lord's second coming. The enemy of souls desires to hinder this work; and before the time for such a movement shall come, he will endeavor to prevent it by introducing a counterfeit. In those churches which he can bring under his deceptive power he will make it appear that God's special blessing is poured out; there will be manifest what is thought to be great religious interest. Multitudes will exult that God is working marvelously for them, when the work is that of another spirit. Under a religious guise, Satan will seek to extend his influence over the Christian world.” {GC 464.1}

Before Universal Sunday Laws

1.“The power attending the message will only madden those who oppose it. . . . The church appeals to the strong arm of civil power, and in this work, papists and Protestants unite. As the movement for Sunday enforcement becomes more bold and decided, the law will be invoked against commandment keepers. . . .” {FLB 330.3} {GC88 607.1}

A.Note: “as the movement for Sunday enforcement becomes more bold and decided” obviously means it has already come into existence, or legislation, but is not being observed by God’s faithful. This thought is reinforced by the following:

B.“Those who trample upon God's law make human laws which they will force the people to accept. Men will devise and counsel and plan what they will do. The whole world keeps Sunday, they say, and why should not this people, who are so few in number, do according to the laws of the land?” -Ms 163, 1897. {LDE 136.3}

a.Its obvious here that this statement is a reference to a time after basic National Sunday Law legislation because “the laws of the land” have to have already been enforced toeven have this statement. It cannot be argued that this applies to the present time, or a time prior to National Sunday Law legislation for two reasons; #1. Sunday Laws are currently NOT on books of every state in the union, #2. The “laws of the land” or National (Federal) laws don’t even legislate Sunday at this time.

2.A Crisis Makes God's Interference Marked – “From time to time the Lord has made known His manner of working. He is mindful of what is passing upon the earth. And when a crisis has come, He has revealed Himself and has interposed to hinder the working of Satan's plans. He has often permitted matters with nations, with families, and with individuals to come to a crisis that His interference might become marked. Then He has let the fact be known that there was a God in Israel who would sustain and vindicate His people.” {LDE 152.3}

A.Note carefully this Bible verse in Joel compared to the Ellen White quote above. Notice that the corporate outpouring of the latter rain will show that God is still in the midst of Israel:

B.“23 Be glad then, you children of Zion, and rejoice in the LORD your God; For He has given you the former rain faithfully, and He will cause the rain to come down for you— The former rain, and the latter rain in the first month. 26… My people shall never be put to shame. 27 Thenyou shall know that I am in the midst of Israel: I am the LORD your God and there is no other. My people shall never be put to shame. 28 “And it shall come to pass afterward that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions. 29 And also on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days.” Joel 2:23,26-29

3.“Whenthe defiance of the law of Jehovah shall bealmost universal, whenHis people shall be pressed in affliction by their fellow men, God will interpose. The fervent prayers of His people will be answered, for He loves to have His people seek Him with all their heart and depend upon Him as their Deliverer.” -RH June 15, 1897. {LDE 153.1}

A.“Almost universal” = before Universal Sunday Laws.

4.“Amidst the deepening shadows of earth's last great crisis, God's light will shine brightest, and the song of hope and trust will be heard in clearest and loftiest strains.” -Ed 166 (1903). {LDE 201.5}

5.“As America, the land of religious liberty, shall unite with the papacy in forcing the conscience and compelling men to honor the false sabbath, the people of every country on the globe will be led to follow her example.” -6T 18 (1900). {LDE 135.1}

6.The latter rain clearly comes prior to Universal Sunday Laws, or there could not be a loud cry against them! If there was not a National Sunday Law being enforced and persecution going on what would the loud cry be about?

Before the work is closed up (the close of probation) and the sealing for God’s people (coming out from the other churches of the world) is finished.

1.“The time has come when we must expect the Lord to do great things for us. Our efforts must not flag or weaken. We are to grow in grace and in a knowledge of the Lord. Before the work is closed up and the sealing of God's people is finished, we shall have the out-pouring of the Spirit of God. Angels from heaven will be in our midst. . . . The present is the fitting up time for heaven, when we each must walk in full obedience to all the commandments of God.” Letter 30, 1907, pp. 2, 3. (To Mr. N. D. Faulkhead, February 5, 1907.) {1MR 175.2}

Before the plagues

1.“Beforethe final visitation of God's judgments upon the earththerewill beamong the people of the Lordsuch a revival of primitive godliness as has not been witnessed since apostolic times. The Spirit and power of God will be poured out upon His children.” -GC 464 (1911). {LDE 186.2}

Basic understanding of the order of the final events by the White Estate

1.Last Day Events Book Index

1. Earth's Last Crisis

2. Signs of Christ's Soon Return

3. "When Shall These Things Be?"

4. God's Last Day Church

5. Devotional Life of the Remnant

6. Lifestyle and Activities of the Remnant

7. Country Living

8. The Cities

9. Sunday Laws

10. The Little Time of Trouble

11. Satan's Last Day Deceptions

12. The Shaking

13. The Latter Rain

14. The Loud Cry

15. The Seal of God and the Mark of the Beast

16. The Close of Probation

17. The Seven Last Plagues and the Wicked

18. The Seven Last Plagues and the Righteous

19. Christ's Return

20. The Inheritance of the Saints

Latter Rain comes just when it is needed, not before! It comes in response to a great crisis! And that is after National Sunday Laws!

1.How do we know that the church won’t get serious about finishing the work until National Sunday Law enforcement?

A.“The work which the church has failed to do in a time of peace and prosperity she will have to do in aterrible crisisunder most discouraging, forbidding circumstances. The warnings that worldly conformity has silenced or withheld must be given under the fiercest opposition from enemies of the faith. And at that timethe superficial, conservative class, whose influence has steadily retarded the progress of the work, will renounce the faith.” -5T 463 (1885). {LDE 174.3}

B.“A great crisis awaits the people of God. A crisis awaits the world. The most momentous struggle of all the ages is just before us. . . . The question of enforcing Sunday observance has become one ofnational interest and importance. We well know what the result of this movement will be. But are we ready for the issue? Have we faithfully discharged the duty which God has committed to us of giving the people warning of the danger before them? . . .” {5T 711.3}{Mar 131.1}

1.There are some movements right now “among the people of the Lord” that are stating that the Latter Rain comes before National Sunday Laws. This backwards “rain brings the storm” theology is dangerous for several reasons:

A.The storm brings the rain, to say otherwise is against the order specified by God.

a.“Whenthe storm of persecution really breaks upon us, . . . thenwill the message of the third angel swell to a loud cry, and the whole earth will be lightened with the glory of the Lord.” --6T 401 (1900). {LDE 208.2}

b.If we state that the latter rain comes before the storm, then we are boldly violating counsel given about bringing on a time of trouble before the time.

B.Places the crisis and test over the Sabbath after the latter rain & sealing

a.“None are condemned until they have had the light and have seen the obligation of the fourth commandment. But when the decree shall go forth enforcing the counterfeit sabbath, and the loud cry of the third angel shall warn men against the worship of the beast and his image, the line will be clearly drawn between the false and the true. Then those who still continue in transgression will receive the mark of the beast.” --Ev 234, 235 (1899). {LDE 225.4}

C.Tears down, or displaces the very object that the loud cry is raised against which is National Sunday Law enforcement. What is the loud cry against if the latter rain and loud cry begin before National Sunday Laws?

a.“The beast with two horns is also to say "to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast;" and, furthermore, it is to command all, "both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond," to receive "the mark of the beast." [REV. 13:11-16.] It has been shown that the United States is the power represented by the beast with lamb-like horns, and that this prophecy will be fulfilled whenthe United States shall enforce Sunday observance, which Rome claims as the special acknowledgment of her supremacy. But in this homage to papacy the United States will not be alone.” {GC 578.3}

b.“As foretold in the eighteenth of Revelation, the third angel's message is to be proclaimed with great power by those who give the final warningagainst the beastand his image: "I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies. And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities. Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works: in the cup which she hath filled fill to her double." Revelation 18:1-6. This is the message given by God to be sounded forth in the loud cry of the third angel. {8T 118.1,2}

c.“…the loud cry of the third angel shall warn men against the worship of the beast and his image…” -Ev 234, 235 (1899). {LDE 225.4}

d.“But the time to receive the mark of the beast, as designated in prophecy, has not yet come. The testing time has not yet come. There are true Christians in every church, not excepting the Roman Catholic communion. None are condemned until they have hadthe lightand have seen the obligation of the fourth commandment. Butwhenthe decree shall go forth enforcing the counterfeit Sabbath, andwhenthe loud cry of the third angel shall warn men against the worship of the beast and his image, the line will be clearly drawn between the false and the true. Then those who still continue in transgression will receive the mark of the beast in their foreheads or in their hands.” {BTS, February 1, 1913 par. 5}

e.National Sunday Law enforcement is the image to the beast

i.“But in the very act of enforcing a religious duty by secular power, the churches would themselves form an image to the beast; hence the enforcement of Sundaykeeping in the United States would be an enforcement of the worship of the beast and his image.” {GC 448.3}

ii.“But when Sunday observance shall be enforced by law, and the world shall be enlightened concerning the obligation of the true Sabbath, then whoever shall transgress the command of God, to obey a precept which has no higher authority than that of Rome, will thereby honor popery above God. He is paying homage to Rome and to the power which enforces the institution ordained by Rome. He is worshipping the beast and his image." {GC 449.1}

iii. “When the leading churches of the United States, uniting upon such points of doctrine as are held by them in common, shall influence the state to enforce their decrees and to sustain their institutions, then Protestant America will have formed an image of the Roman hierarchy, and the infliction of civil penalties upon dissenters will inevitably result. . . .” {LDE 131.1}

iv. “What is the "image to the beast"? and how is it to be formed? The image is made by the two-horned beast, and is an image to the beast. It is also called an image of the beast. [THE TWO-HORNED BEAST OF REVELATION 13:11-17 MAKES AN IMAGE TO THE BEAST PORTRAYED IN REVELATION 13:1-10.] Then to learn what the image is like and how it is to be formed, we must study the characteristics of the beast itself--the papacy.” {LDE 228.1}

v.“The "image to the beast" represents that form of apostate Protestantism which will be developed when the Protestant churches shall seek the aid of the civil power for the enforcement of their dogmas.” --GC 443, 445 (1911). {LDE 228.3}

vi.“The Sunday idol is set up as was this image." {12MR 219.2}

f.If we state that the latter rain comes before the storm, then we are boldly violating counsel given about bringing on a time of trouble before the time.

D.Bringing on a time of trouble before the time by attempting to use the latter rain and loud cry to bring on the loud cry, persecution and Sunday Laws.

a.“The Lord does not move upon His workers to make them take a course which will bring on the time of trouble before the time. Let them not build up a wall of separation between themselves and the world, by advancing their own ideas and notions. There is now altogether too much of this throughout our borders. The message of warning has not reached large numbers of the world in the very cities that are right at hand, and to number Israel is not to work after God's order.” {TM 202.1}

b.“The Lord does not move upon His workers to make them take a course which will bring on the time of trouble before the time. Let them not build up a wall of separation between themselves and the world by advancing their own ideas and notions. There is now altogether too much of this throughout our borders. The message of warning has not reached large numbers of the world in the very cities that are right at hand, and to number Israel is not to work after God's order. There is abundance of earnest work in cities that have not been worked. Let your pen and will work to enlighten these souls in simple, stirring articles upon faith and love.” {16MR 169.1}

c.If we state that the latter rain and loud cry come before National Sunday Laws

2.Comments on the dangers of incorrect chronology concerning the latter rain by one of our leading SDA, end time event theologians.

A."...it is now being taught in our denomination that the latter rain and sealing precede the national Sunday law crisis. It is frequently stated in our denominational papers and gatherings that the latter rain is falling somewhere else in the world-as evinced by lots of baptisms. (1) If the Sunday law crisis precedes and leads into the other events (including the sealing and latter rain) before the general close of probation, then a terrible crisis is ahead of our denomination! This view, fully supported by the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy, is the correct one. (2) If the latter rain and sealing come first, then it is easier to conjecture that we can remain in our sins while we receive the latter rain and are sealed, still continuing in those sins until the second advent -with the denomination experiencing no great crisis over strict obedience to the law of God. This view is incorrect, and is bringing afalse hopeto many of our people." -Pr. Vance Ferrell - "The End of Time - A REMARKABLY COMPLETE COLLECTION OF SPIRIT OF PROPHECY STATEMENTS ON FINAL EVENTS" Pg. 77 (The section in parentheses above about the sealing and latter rain has not been added but is directly quoted out of the book.) (Vance Ferrell is a well known theologian, pastor, and author of many SDA books including the common "National Sunday Law Crisis" in print for many, many years and available at any ABC.)

a.“Vance Ferrell is an older member who now spends most of his time publishing lowest-cost paperbacks of Spirit of Prophecy books for widespread distribution (see back of this book). In earlier years, he was an Adventist denominational canvasser, teacher, and pastor. His educational background includes 22 years of formal education (based on 9 months per year), which resulted in a B.A., M.A., and B.D. in theology and Biblical Languages from our schools (Pacific Union College and Andrews University), plus training in professional education. His only concern is to ground you in the faith and encourage you to stand in its defense.” –www.present-truth.org

The true Latter Rain Will be Called a False Light by Those Who Refuse to Walk in the Advancing Glory

Many Adventists Brace Themselves Against the Light “There is to be in the [Seventh-day Adventist] churches a wonderful manifestation of the power of God, but it will not move upon those who have not humbled themselves before the Lord, and opened the door of the heart by confession and repentance. In the manifestation of that power which lightens the earth with the glory of God, they will see only something which in their blindness they think dangerous, something which will arouse their fears, and they will brace themselves to resist it. Because the Lord does not work according totheir ideasandexpectationsthey will oppose the work. "Why," they say, "should we notknowthe Spirit of God, when we have been in the work so many years?"--RH Extra, Dec. 23, 1890. {LDE 209.3} “The third angel's message will not be comprehended, the light which will lighten the earth with its glory will be called a false light, by those who refuse to walk in its advancing glory.” --RH May 27, 1890. {LDE 210.1}

1.This statement can also be tied into the question of when. If you see a “movement” concerning the Latter Rain that almost everyone is supporting then you can know it’s not the true Latter Rain according to this statement. We must also be careful not to confuse the counterfeit that comes before the time, with the true outpouring of the Latter Rain within the proper context of its chronology.